If you have an infected or damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a root canal or a tooth extraction procedure depending on the severity of the damage. If you are unsure about the differences between the treatments, the team at Stephanie ML Wong, DMD, is here to share some helpful information. Serving the community of Honolulu, HI, the leading dentist provides a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry services to help improve their patients’ smiles.

Root Canal

When the soft tissue inside the root canal of the tooth, also known as the pulp, becomes infected, a root canal procedure is the only way to save the tooth. A dentist applies a local anesthetic to the affected area and then drills a hole to remove the infected or dead pulp. To seal the tooth, you will have to return for a follow-up procedure where the dentist places a crown on the site.

Tooth Extraction

If the decay in the pulp is left to worsen, it may no longer be possible to save the tooth. In this situation, a tooth extraction is the only solution. This is also recommended when the structure of the tooth is weakened or severely fractured. After removal, the dentist will list various types of replacement procedures to fill the gap, such as dental bridges or implants.

Whether experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, it’s important to address the issue right away by seeing a dentist. For the leading provider in Honolulu, HI, turn to the team at Stephanie ML Wong, DMD. They will find the cause of your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment. Contact the office at (808) 732-3072 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information about their services.